Savory Asparagus Strata

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 pound medium fresh mushrooms, quartered
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 packages (4 ounces each) herbed fresh goat cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 12 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 envelope hollandaise sauce mix

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus, mushrooms, garlic salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; cook and stir 3-4 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
2. Place half of the bread cubes in a greased 13×9-in. baking dish. Top with asparagus mixture, goat cheese and remaining bread.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, thyme, salt and remaining pepper. Pour over top; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Refrigerate, covered, overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 350°. Remove strata from refrigerator while oven heats. Bake, uncovered, 50-60 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand 5-10 minutes before serving. Meanwhile, prepare sauce mix according to package directions. Serve with strata.